Tax Credits

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Most tax credits are non-refundable and simply reduce the amount of taxes a filer owes. Refundable tax credits differ because they provide a refund to a filer even if the credit value is more than the amount of taxes owed. Refundable tax credits are important because they have the same value for all workers regardless of their income.

The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and Child Tax Credit (CTC) are federal refundable tax benefits that help workers care for their families, withstand unexpected economic changes, and reduce poverty.

To claim any tax credit, eligible workers must file a tax return. Preparing a tax return can be complicated and may seem overwhelming. That’s why it’s so important for workers to know about Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and other free tax filing programs.

Many documented immigrants who are employed can get the EITC. You, your spouse, and children listed on the Schedule EIC must each have valid Social Security numbers that permit you to work in the United States.

Do you know how much your EITC is worth?

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Tax credits help working families and their communities thrive. Sign up to help spread the word about these important tax credits and free tax filing. We send occasional emails with resources to help your work.

Get It Back Campaign

The Get It Back Campaign helps eligible workers claim tax credits and use free tax filing assistance to maximize tax time. A project of the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, the Campaign partners with community organizations, businesses, government agencies, and financial institutions to conduct outreach nationally. For 30 years, these partnerships have connected lower and moderate-income workers to tax benefits like the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), the Child Tax Credit (CTC), and Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA).

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Get It Back CampaignCenter on Budget and Policy Priorities
820 First Street, NE, Suite 510
Washington, DC 20002
(202) 408-1080